Rafael Nadal Announces Retirement After Two-Decade Legendary Career

AFP | Paris

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Rafael Nadal, one of tennis' most iconic players, has announced his retirement following the Davis Cup finals in November. After securing 22 Grand Slam titles, countless memorable battles with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, and a career spanning two decades, the 38-year-old Spaniard shared the news via social media.

"I am retiring from professional tennis. The last few years have been difficult, especially the most recent two," Nadal stated. "It was a hard decision to make, but everything in life has a beginning and an end."

Nadal leaves behind an unmatched legacy with 92 career titles and over $135 million in prize money, solidifying his place among the greatest tennis players in history.

Federer, Nadal's long-time rival and friend, expressed his emotions on social media: "What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and incredible achievements. It’s been an absolute honor!"

Current world No.1 Jannik Sinner also acknowledged the significant impact of Nadal’s departure, calling it "tough news for the tennis world" after an injury-ridden final season.

In 2023, Nadal played just four matches and returned to competition in January, only to miss the Australian Open due to a muscle tear. After a brief comeback, he reached the final in Bastad but was eliminated early at the French Open by Alexander Zverev. His farewell to Grand Slam tennis came after a loss to Djokovic at the Olympics, followed by a doubles quarter-final exit alongside Carlos Alcaraz at the Paris Games.

Alcaraz paid tribute to his idol, saying, "Thank you for being an example on every level, your legacy is incomparable."

Nadal's final tournament will be the Davis Cup in November, where he hopes to add a sixth title for Spain, closing the chapter on a career that began with his first Davis Cup win as a teenager in 2004. "I feel like I've come full circle," he said.

Nadal’s dominance, especially on clay, led to 14 French Open titles and 118 victories at Roland Garros, with only five losses. He also won four US Open titles, two Australian Opens, and two Wimbledon titles, including the unforgettable 2008 final against Federer, widely regarded as the greatest match in tennis history.

Throughout his career, Nadal dealt with numerous injuries, including Muller-Weiss syndrome, a degenerative foot condition, and underwent various medical procedures to prolong his career. Despite his battle with injuries, he secured Olympic gold in 2008 and held the world No.1 spot for 209 weeks.

Nadal’s retirement marks the end of an era in tennis, following Federer’s departure two years ago. In their rivalry, Nadal led Federer 24-16, while Djokovic holds the edge over Nadal with a 30-28 record in their 60 matchups.

Reflecting on his career, Nadal said, "I think it’s the right time to end a career that has been longer and more successful than I could have ever imagined. I’m excited that my final tournament will be representing my country."